Biblical References: “A time to weep” (Joel 2:12-14a)

Theme: COMPASSION

By Bishop George McKinney
St. Stephens Church Of God In Christ
San Diego, CA

SCRIPTURES:
• 12 “Therefore also now, saith the Lord, turn ye even to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning: 13 And rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the Lord your God: for He is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repenteth Him of the evil. 14 Who knoweth if he will return and repent, and leave a blessing behind him; even a meat offering and a drink offering unto the LORD your God?”

THEMES:
1. A model to follow: The scriptures talk about a merciful God in the face of imminent judgement. The Biblical model according to Joel suggests that in the face of an unsolvable dilemma, compassion accompanied by fasting and tears is an important part of the solution. While we champion the judgement of God, let us remember the pity and grace of God.

2.To soften your heart: The scriptures talk about returning to God for He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love.

HIV/AIDS References:
• Studies have shown that the support of family and friends is important in helping people living with HIV or AIDS cope with the trauma of the disease.

• The church plays a very important role in spiritual healing. It is a place where one can immerse themselves in a community and feel like a part of something, and help use the strength of others.

• Prayer for healing and understanding for those with HIV can have a profound effect. A study published in the October 1999 issue of Archives of Internal Medicine found that intercessory prayer (prayer by another person) had a beneficial effect for heart patients at St. Luke’s Hospital in Kansas City, MO, even if the patients themselves were unaware they were being prayed for. The 466 secretly prayed – for patients did 11 percent better than 524 other heart patients. The message of such a study is clear and harmless: praying for those with HIV might help.

• Because of advances in treatment, those with HIV are living longer now, and have more time to grapple with the disease emotionally. In these hard times, the support of the community is more critical than ever.

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